Roof mounting [RE-wrenches]

[graham at solarexpert.com]

Hey Dan,

I think you will have to pierce the roof membrane to structurally attach
the array.  If the roofer stated he will work with you then he can flash
and seal the mounts.  I like "Fast Jack" mounts which allow for easily
applying a new roof in the future, especially if the modules are racked
up at an angle.  These mounts also have full documented engineering, the
lag bolt pulls out at 1,200 lbs and the mount does not break.  This is
assuming the lag bolt is tightened into a rafter.  The pull-out of 5/16"
lag bolts are rated at 274 pounds per inch in group 1 lumber (fir).

Getting roofing contractors to feel positive about solar installations
is very important for the solar industry.  Many roofing contractors here
in Los Angeles have a negative feeling with respect to solar on roof
tops (leaks that cannot easily be accessed).  If you go through the
yellow pages and call roofers and mention you are re-roofing and have
solar, they may tell you to "get that crap off your roof"

With that said,  it is possible to give roofers an attitude adjustment.
I started GO Solar Company in 1986, when all of the solar thermal
contractors went out of business.  Over the years we have removed and
replaced solar panels on many hundreds of homes and apartment buildings
and we work closely with a couple of honest competent roofing
contractors.  Removal and replacement is a three step process.  The
solar panels and mounting system are removed, the roofers do the
tear-off, then we install Fast Jacks and provide the flashings, upon
completion of the roof installation the solar is re-attached.  The
critical part of maintaining a relationship with roofers is to be there
when roof is torn off and not hold up there job.  The referrals between
solar contractors and roofing contractors benefits both businesses.  I
have referred many people who need a new roof to my preferred roofer,
even when shading makes a PV installation impractical. Since I prefer
installing solar panels when a new roof is applied, the roofer gives my
PV brochure to all of his potential customers.

My greatest source of hot leads is from 2 roofing contractors.  Call
Stan at Professional Solar Products (800)-847-6527, get a few Fast Jacks
and engineering, then give these as samples to your local roofing
contractors.

Here are a couple of web pages that may be helpful.

www.solarexpert.com/instroof3.html commercial thermal (pool heating)

www.solarexpert.com/instroof5.html residential PV

I hope this helps,

Graham Owen

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